House History

Driving up to the white house on the hill, one can only wonder what history this house holds. Did it just watch the 1858 Oberlin-Wellington Rescue take place? Or maybe it was an active participant? Did it offer refuge to escaping slaves on their journey to freedom on the Underground Railroad? The dry cistern and the hidden opening in the cellar suggest it may have. Only the house knows for sure!

The Welcome Soldier

This historical house with eyes to the past stands on the diagonal road that connects Elyria to Wellington as it by passes Oberlin city. It witnessed the abduction of John Price, which many believe began a chain of events that were not settled until well over 600,000 Americans gave their lives to end the question of slavery and the Civil War.

Hole in upstairs floor board

Hallauer House was built by Nathan Smith in 1830 in the Greek Revival style but it was the Samuel Wightman family who lived here during the Civil War era and whom we believe, offered the house as a stop on the Underground Railroad.The dry cistern, the hidden dirt floor in the basement, and the pine board floor plug over that dirt floor are all evidence that the house may indeed have played a role in American history.

Indeed your journey back in time begins with the clang-clang of the 1860 doorbell.

The massive door squeaks open to allow you inside. Immediately you begin to feel the presence of the past as it meets the promise of tomorrow. Come with us as we take you on the tour of historical Hallauer House, our Civil War themed Bed and Breakfast. Explore history, feel history, enjoy history.

Are you looking for a unique and interesting place to spend a few days or a week? Then by all means we invite you to come on down and visit our town, Oberlin, Ohio. In any event take our web site tour and learn about all that we have to offer.

To see more of the house and amenities, please see ourhouse tour page.